Cleveland Browns

Cleveland Browns news, rumors and injuries

Cleveland Browns general manager Ray Farmer has been suspended for the first four games of the 2015 season for illegally texting coaches during games this past season. Farmer will not be allowed to enter any of the team's facilities or games during the suspension. The team will not lose any draft picks due to the incident but was fined $250,000.

Former Oregon QB Marcus Mariota is not currently scheduled for a pre-draft visit with the Cleveland Browns, and ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler believes the Browns could be saving one of their 30 in-house visits because quarterbacks coach Kevin O'Connell already has inside knowledge about Mariota from his time as Mariota's private tutor.

Fantasy Tip: The Browns have two first-round draft picks in the 2015 NFL Draft, and they could conceivably put together a package to move up and draft Mariota. Regardless of where he lands, Mariota would be worth a flier in two-quarterback leagues.

The Cleveland Browns were informed at this week's NFL owners' meetings that they will face severe discipline, according to sources. General manager Ray Farmer acknowledged he violated the league's electronic policy by texting during games. The extent of the discipline is expected to be announced next week.

Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine said the team will not volunteer to be featured on the show "Hard Knocks" partly because QB Johnny Manziel doesn't need the increased scrutiny and attention. Manziel is currently in rehab, and the team expects him to be present for the start of offseason workouts April 20.

A report that Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam might be interested in swapping franchises and owning the Tennessee Titans was denied by the Browns Monday, March 23. "It's 100% false," a Browns spokesman said. "There is no truth to the careless speculation from the reporter."

Free-agent TE Rob Housler (Cardinals) has had talks with the Cleveland Browns, but no deal is imminent and no visit has been scheduled, according to a source. Housler is believed to be interested in joining the Browns.

Fantasy Tip: The Browns do not have a lot at tight end, so Housler could start if he signs with Cleveland. Housler likely would be a No. 2 tight end in drafts next season if he wins the starting job.

Cleveland Browns C Alex Mack is under contract through the 2018 season but can void the final three years of his contract after next season. Mack may consider voiding the contract in order to receive a lucrative contract extension.

Cleveland Browns OT Michael Bowie (shoulder) should be ready to participate once training camp begins, according to head coach Mike Pettine. He is expected to compete for the right tackle job if he is healthy.